To be nominated and win the British Journal of Nursing IBD/ Gastrointestinal nurse of the year 2016 was such an honour and an overwhelming experience, particularly as it’s a subject and  job that I am so passionate about.  Nurse specialists are continually involved in so many projects, service development and research that often goes unnoticed. I think winning an award such as this not only raises the profile of nursing but also that of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. I encourage all nurses to nominate a colleague, or even to nominate work that they have done themselves and that they are proud of. What may be ‘just part of the job’ for one person could be an innovation and help IBD patients or professionals elsewhere.

We often learn from patients about how their nurse has gone way beyond the four walls of the hospital to support them in their care, but is there any other specialist who remains as shy about their dedication, achievements and the sheer positive impact they have on many people’s lives? They are probably too busy to think about it, which is why we must celebrate and recognise all the nurses who make such a difference. Please make a nomination for yourself -  or on behalf of a nurse you know - and help to highlight the critical contribution of nurses.